SURGERY WENT WELL!!!

About 6:30 I was driving to work and I received a text from Teresa: "Tami is out of 3rd surgery. Went great! They put the skull piece back in. Yeah!" I pulled over to read it . . .shed a few tears and said a gratitude prayer. I spoke to her about 20 minutes ago (8:30pm) and she was heading back to see Tami. They let Teresa and Logan go in for a minute before she texted me the first time but then it was the two hour block for shift change and they had to leave. Two more YEAYS: She's not on a ventilator and she won't have to wear a helmet.
They will be watching her closely and hopefully they can make her comfortable while she heals from this surgery. The last few days have been very difficult for her. Thanks again for all the prayers and support.

Tues.Afternoon Sept 30th

From Teresa... Yesterday at noonish they removed the last IV line. That left only the feeding tube. Right now (2:20pm) they are upstairs putting in another central IV line in preparation for the next surgery scheduled for about 4:00pm today. The good news is; if there is no infection in the brain they plan to put back in the piece of scull they took out on Sept. 2nd. Then she won't need another operation to replace that, and she won't have to wear the helmet up in rehab or anywhere else. So keep us in your prayers again and still. More later.. Teresa

TAMI BACK IN ICU

I reluctantly drove back to St. George yesterday. It was SO hard to leave and I wouldn’t have except I thought the things that needed attending to here were critical as well.

I talked to Teresa about 3:20 and she said they were moving Tami back to ICU so they could watch her more closely. Her pain was still excruciating and they were concerned about her condition.
I talked to Teresa a few moments ago and she said they have given her plasma to offset the blood thinners and are considering surgery to relieve the bleeding and swelling. She only talked for a moment and this is all the information I have. She is a much better reporter than I am, but this lets you know we are concerned.

Please know how deeply and sincerely we appreciate your prayers, love, and support. When I arrived home yesterday, I wept as I opened my mail and felt your generosity and read your sweet notes. YOU ARE WONDERFUL!

Be patient . . . we will try to keep this updated.

Sunday night, Sept 28th

From Teresa... We took a day of rest. No work. She got pain medication every three hours. She slept through the first 2 1/2 hours then would wake in pain again and Grandma Ann and I would try to distract or relax her that last 1/2 hour until she could have more meds. By 9:00 pm she said the headaches were less than this morning. So I hope the rest did her good. Her vitals were good throughout the day. Brother Logan, and friend Tawnya were in tonight. She told Tawnya thanks for doing the yard sale. Logan shared his healing energy with her. More later... Teresa

Sunday, September 28, 2008
Hello everyone! It’s “Aunt Riley”! (I’m really Uncle Riley) “Aunt Riley is what Lily and Ella call me.
I had the opportunity to go see Tami this weekend.
When I first walked in the room she looked at me and said “hi Aunt Riley” just like her girls do to me. I was with her and Teresa for a couple of hours and I had a good conversation with Tami. I was surprised at how well she could communicate! Tami is so smart! It was amazing to me that she could remember so many small details about her life, my life and our family. She asked me questions about my girl’s birthdays and she told me that she was mad that she had slept through hers. (joke) I definitely got a sense that she still has the wit and humor we love about our Tami.

Physically, she is tired and in a lot of pain. She has lost a lot of weight and her face and head are swollen. She still cannot move anything on the left side of her body but she can feel some things on that side, which is encouraging. We think she can see a little out of her left eye and hear a little out of her left ear. With all that is happened to her, she of course, is still beautiful!

I am hopeful and optimistic for Tami but she is in for a long recovery. I sincerely believe she has the fight in her to do it but it is going to take a considerable amount of time.
In the mean time, she has a loving husband and two beautiful girls without the help of their mommy. They need all the support they can get!
Tami’s best friend Tawnya is such a sweetheart! The garage sale she organized was great and it raised some crucial funds to help their little family on the road to recovery. I went to the garage sale for awhile and while I was there I heard several stories of people who did not even know Tami donating whatever they could to help out our little princess.
I am writing to the readers of this blog, the families and friends of Tami, Albert and those little girls, and every other person that can help in any way. Tell her you love her! Please keep giving! And never stop praying!
I love and thank you all!
Uncle Riley

Evening update Sept 27th

From Teresa... Good news ,bad news day. Tami was having pain in her head yesterday after wearing her helmet . We called the company that fit it to her. They sent a guy over to readjust it for her. But by then her head was so sore that she was hurting even with it off. She had booked a massage with the guy that gives them free to the patients for 9:30 pm. By the time for it she was too uncomfortable to enjoy or relax for it. The nurse gave her medicine for pain and to help her sleep. She said she felt hot and nausious. She slep until 12:45am, then woke up uncomfortable again. She got more meds. and fell back to sleep. By 6:30 am she was hurting again and hot and nausious. I asked the nurses to check her temperature and vitals. She wasn't running a fever.( she was actually a little cooler than normal). Her nurse checked with her doctor about adjusting the pain meds. So most of the therapy was done in her room today with the exception of her walking a few steps with help in the paralell bars. She managed to eat half a thing of yogurt and enjoyed every bite.

Yesterday she was taken off the heprin drip, and put on a different blood thiner. Yeah! one less IV line.

This afternoon her head was still hurting, so the doctor ordered a CT scan. There is some swelling which is being monitored. She is snoring now. I think rest is a main ingrediant in her healing process.

Thanks to all that contributed to help with the yard sale, both in donations, and labor. I know it was a lot of work! Also thanks to those that purchased stuff.

Please keep her in your prayers still. More later...Teresa

Yard Sale Tomorrow

The big yard sale has arrived! Tonight I have received three more truck loads of "stuff " for the sale and two more truck loads are arriving in the morning. It is going to be a big one! Thank you, thank you to all who have contributed.

Many people have asked for the exact coordinates of Chad St. in Midvale. The location of the yard sale is

7679 S Chad St. (765 E) in Midvale just past Hillcrest High School and just before the Fort Union Harmons.

There will be directional signs posted on 900 E and on 1000 E. Also, map quest is always helpful.

I hope to see you there.

Friday Sept. 26th

Teresa says... Last night was much better. Tami and I both got a good nights sleep. Her nurse Kasi is fantastic!(So patient and loving). We managed to give Tami a second shower, which she loved. Tami is working hard and relearning how to do every day things like getting dressed.

My parents and sister Dolores came out to SLC to bring a truckload of donations for the yard sale tomorrow. They called when they arrived and happened to be here between Tami's workouts. So they got to visit her and have lunch with me. It was nice. Grandma Ann came up yesterday and is here today. It gives me peace of mind to leave Tami for a little while and run errands or work out at Curves and know Tami's in good hands with her Grandma Ann for company.

The book Regina gave me, "My Stroke of Insight" is really good. I'm learning all kinds of useful things to help me deal with Tami and what she is going through. It's probably something every nurse or person helping any patient should read. Anyway...Thanks again Regina. More later ....Teresa

In Rehab Sept.25th

From Teresa... We made it up to rehab by 1:00pm. The doctors evaluated her. OT came by.Then they let us settle in. It was a restless night. (new environment) She agreed to some pain relief at 3 am, and slept a little better. I was able to stay in her room with her. I got up at 7am and took a shower. So far this morning she's seen the doctor, OT, PT, speech therapy, the theripist for depression, and had a chest x-ray. All before noon! Now she's resting before the afternoon stuff. Visiting hours are from 4pm to 8pm.(If she's up to it) .Anyway... More later...Teresa

Yard Sale This Weekend!!

This weekend is the big yard sale! We are really excited. There have been a lot of great items donated; clothing, furniture, and antiques. There is an ad being run in the Salt Lake Tribune, Deseret News, and on KSL. We are hoping for a big turn out.

Come and check it out
Saturday, September 27th.
8:00am-2:00pm
7679 S. Chad St. in Midvale

Thanks again to all who have donated their "stuff "
Hope to see you Saturday!

ICU Breakout Sept.24th

From Teresa ... Tami's "breakout" from ICU is planned for 11:00 am today. I have her bag of clothes for rehab ready and waiting. The old room is stripped of photos,cards, CD's, etc. She had 'breakfast" of yogurt, applesauce, muffin, orange juice, ice chips, and water. YUM! Now we're just waiting to learn the new game plan....More later ...Teresa

Tues. Sept 23rd

From Teresa.... It's been an eventful day so far. Tami was up in her wheel chair first thing this morning. Her head and neck muscles are getting stronger each day. They did the scope thing to check on her swallowing abilities. She did quite well. The speech therapist will be back in this afternoon to let her eat some more. Also PT and OT hopefully. The catheter was removed yesterday afternoon and so was the chest tube. Today they removed the arterial line in her right arm. Each thing out is one step closer to recovery. Yeah!!!!

I got a tour of rehab today and the lady in charge said tomorrow between 11:00am and 1:00 pm to move her up to the 12th floor hopefully. More later... Teresa.

Morning update Sept.22nd

From Teresa... Last night one of Tami's nurses popped in to see her "awake". Candice had a few days off and Tami was still "asleep" the last time she took care of her. Candice kept telling Tami, "I'll let you slug me when you wake up." She was THRILLED to see Tami with her eyes open and hear that she could talk. I loved Candice with Tami. She called her "sweetie" and "beautiful" and had the sun shining into the room. She stimulated her and encouraged her to "go for it'. I promised Candice when Tami walks out of here we will track her down to say goodbye.

This morning occupational therapy was in and put Tami in a chair, and wheeled her around. She liked getting out of her room. They wore her out, so she's resting now. Depending on bed space , we should be moved up to rehab Tues. or Wed. More later... Teresa

Sunday Sept.21st

Teresa says... Albert and Logan kept Tami company last night. Logan said that before he left , she wiggled her left toes for him. That's the first movement out of the left foot so far. Today she had both occupational therapy and physical therapy visits. She is doing better each time. I haven't seen the speech people yet today. Tami is speaking more clearly each day. Her sense of humor is still strong. It's hard for her to be patient with herself and give her body time to heal and catch up with her mind.

Albert let her girls see her. Ella was gentle and gave her a kiss. Lilli wasn't sure what to think about the way Tami looked. So she blew her mom a kiss, and told her she loved her. Tami told Lilli she could make her a Birthday cake with sprinkles on it. Lilli liked that idea. They headed back to St. George this afternoon.

The sweet nurse Jeanie was washing Tami's head today and trying to comb out the side that still has hair. I asked Tami if it was ok to let her cut it short to make it easier to deal with. She said yes. Jeanie carefully cut it short. Aunt Devron promised to fix it up as soon as possible. (That's what Devron does for a living.) Anyway...Tami's helmet fit better today and didn't pull as much on her chin.

The physical therapist helped ease the pain in her hip, and I think I actually saw her smile a bit and tease him . That gave my heart joy! She was sore and worn out after all that hard work so the nurse gave her some pain medicine and an ice pack for her neck. She was resting when I left at 6:30 pm.

Lilli and I went to Mass today and thanked God for her mommys recovery so far and asked him to continue watching over Tami and all those who love her . (Also to bless all grandma Teresa'a friends at Lowe's). I miss saying "goodmorning" to each one of you "sleep deprived" early morning friends. Hang in there, and hold down the fort until I can get back and help out again. Teresa

The strength of our girl!

This is Devron, and I just got back from the hospital and wanted to let you know a little about my afternoon with Tami.
When I headed up to the hospital earlier I said a prayer that I would take a peace with me that Tami would feel, that I would know what to say and when not to speak at all.
When I got there , she was alone and it was so nice just to sit there in the silence with her. She looked at me lovingly and I felt the peace the I had prayed for. After a few minutes she said, "You look beautiful!" Even though I questioned her, I knew that she meant it. We continued to share a few words at a time and it was so nice just to sit with her. She even rubbed my hand back, as if trying to comfort me. I left after a little while and then returned and when I got back into her room the physical therapist and the occupational therapist were in there and they sat Tami up so that she could try and work some of her tired muscles and so she could try and see out the window. The P.T. asked if there was a picture in the room of Tami and I showed him one. He asked how recent it was, and I told him, very. I then commented that she was a hottie, and she seemed to thoroughly enjoy that. Every time we would mention that was a hottie, she would get a big grin on her face. Before I left I even heard a chuckle out of her. I also got to see her sit up and not want to lay down, because, even though it was very uncomfortable, she knows that it is the way back to recovery. Thank you Doug the P.T. for lightening the mood and making my Tami chuckle.
Today gave me hope. Hope that even though this is an awful tragedy, Tami is stronger than even she knows. She will always want to try longer and harder and that is why she will come through this. The road may be long, but she will be determined to travel it.
I have always admired the strength of this amazing girl and she just continues to amaze me.
Love Devron
P.S. I forgot to tell that the occupational therapist kept trying to get her to pucker her lips and Tami wouldn't do it, so finally the O.T. asked her to stick her tongue out, and Tamisaid,"For Ice Cream." Tami was trying to bargain with her, it made me smile.

Morning report Sept. 20th

From the mom.... By yesterday afternoon Tami was getting pretty frustrated with me for not just "pushing" her home so she could get a shower, go to the bathroom on her own ,and have her "dignity". She wants to see her girls. They fitted a helmet to protect her head from injury, so when she asked me to help her stand up and I said her left leg wouldn't support her, she would fall and get hurt. She said "that's what the helmet's for". Albert arrived at the hospital about 11pm. Tami was really glad to see him, (me too). I left them alone so she could tell him how mean I was to her all day.

This morning the doctors noticed some infection in the stitches over her right ear. They have started her on some antibiotics. She had another "swallow test" and did pretty well. (almost good enough to get the bothersome feeding tube out). They will check her again this afternoon. The chest tube didn't come out yet, maybe today....Anyway...more later....Teresa.

Friday Sept.19th

Teresa says... I just met with the lady in charge of rehab on the 12th floor. Good news, we are looking at Tues. for hoping to move Tami up there for the next step in her progress. I can't wait!!! Early this morning the "little turkey",(Tami) managed to pull out her feeding tube again! So they left it out until after a "swallow test" could be done. Just to see if she could eat on her own. She's still not quite there yet, so they just had to put it in again. Bummer... Anyway they will keep testing her each day to see when she can eat on her own. The chest tube is supposed to come out this afternoon, and she's finished with the saline solution for now. Her neck still hurts from when she tore some ligaments in it when she fell with the stroke. Also her lower back and sciatic nerve were bothering her before the stroke. Those are hurting her now after two weeks plus on her back. She is really missing her favorite Dr. Eric Johnson (Chiropractor) that moved to Kentucky. But over all, each day is getting better.

GRATITUDE!!!! Tami talks!!! Thursday 9-18-08

Grandma Ann reporting: My hands are shaking - tears of gratitude in my eyes - heart full of gratitude!!! I know she's not 'out of the woods' but she's talking to us. It is difficult and painful for her to talk because her throat is so sore from the monster tube - and we have to listen very carefully. We have pictures of their family and the two girls on the light that pulls down close over her bed. She has looked at them and acknowledged them, but a little while ago she pulled it closer and turned the light ON. The light reflects through the pictures and I think she can see them better. I WILL SHARE A FEW QUOTES: I told her how wonderful Albert has been. . .she said, "He's a good Dad!" She said, "I want food. No more fiber. Diarrhea." We got that message (but they can't give her food until her swallow ability has been confirmed). She said, "I want my girls." We explained that when she was moved to a different room, they could come see her. I told her she was a fabulous Mommy. She said, "I've had good examples." I am anxious to hear what the doctor has to say, but for now we are wrapped in the moment of the joy.

One more thing. . .I said that Devron was anxious to get up here to see her. She said, "Not Marc. He would be sad." We told her he was sad. . but that this morning he was HAPPY because she was doing better. Note to Marc: I will print the notes you have posted and share them with her. When she says she's ready. . .we will get you here. Hang in there Grandpa Dude!

The needs are still there (prayers, financial, medical, rehabilitation and who knows what else) and there may be setbacks. . .but our Tami is doing her "Tami Thing" - being a fighter. NO WONDER WE ALL LOVE AND ADMIRE HER SO MUCH.

more good news, Sept.18th

Teresa says... When I got back in Tami's room last night after your last update, she had managed to work her ventilator tube almost completely out with her tongue! So the nurses took it out the rest of the way! They had an oxygen mask on her mouth and nose. Around midnight they switched that to the little hose that sits below your nose and blows oxygen up your nostrils. I think it will be MUCH more comfortable for her. It's definitely easier for me to see her that way. She made it through the night that way, and today the ventilator machine is totally OUT of her room! I LOVE IT! She tried to say something to me this morning, but her throat is so raw and sore that I couldn't understand her. Her voice will be real raspy for a while. I can't wait to speak with her again!!! Keep up your prayers please. Thanks...

Yard Sale Update

On Saturday, September 27th a few of Tami’s friends and family members will be having an end of the season yard sale. ALL of the proceeds from the yard sale will go to Tami and her family!

I would like to thank everyone who has donated items to the sale up to this point. It is going to be a great sale!

If you or anyone you know have items, big or small, to donate to our yard sale please email me at tawnv8@hotmail.com. I have been able to arrange drop off locations in St. George, Orem, Heber City, and West Jordan.

Albert is leaving St. George for SLC on Friday the 19th. He will be driving his pick up and is willing to haul whatever donations will fit in it. If you are living in the southern area and have items to donate please email me for Albert's contact information.

We will post more information as the date of the sale approaches.
Thanks again,
Tawnya Goodfellow

Wed. Sept.17th

From Teresa...Another good day! At 6:25pm Tami followed some commands. First she "tracked" the nurse with her eyes, then she squeezed the two fingers of her nurse when asked. She was also able to wiggle her toes on her right foot and pushed against her nurses hand with that foot. She wasn't able to repeat it with her left foot, but to respond to any commands made my day! Then, after we left for the nurse shift change ,I understand that she managed to pull out her feeding tube from her nose.(I imagine it felt uncomfortable). So they put a new one in the other nostril. Her hands are anchored further down now. The tests to measure her blood coagulation came back with good numbers. (at least the ones the doctors are shooting for) They will retest again tonight to see if they are holding. She spiked a fever early this morning but after a bath her temp. came down again. They "deflated" the ventilator tube a little to check for inflammation of the throat. so far so good, no sign of swelling. I guess that's it for now.( Happy Birthday Lisa Mackey, from Teresa and Tami!)

HALLELUJAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Terasa just called and couldn't hardly contain herself. She was in Tami's room just before 6:30 and the nurse had moved from one side of the bed to the other and she realized Tami was tracking her with her eyes. She acknowledged this to Teresa and then put her two fingers in Tami's hand and she asked her to squeeze her fingers and SHE DID IT!!!Then she went down to her right foot and told her to push on it and SHE DID IT!!! She wasn't able to do it with her left, but who cares. This is amazing ! Teresa says she feels like once Tami starts the road to recovery she is gonna do it fast (relatively speaking).
Tami is a miracle and she will keep on being one. Keep Praying!

Tuesday night Sept.16th

Teresa's report... Hi, I realize people are checking this several times a day and I'm sorry there aren't more updates. Lately the ICU waiting room that I use for your updates has been really busy, and the computer seems to be in use every time I would like to get on. So it's been late in the night when I can get on. Today was another good day. Tami responded to textures and when the doctor pinched one arm she moved a leg. He said that was a good sign because the signal was traveling from one side of her brain to the other. She lifted her right leg quite a bit today, pulling it toward her trunk. She moved both arms a lot too. The left leg is not moving yet. She kept her eyes open off and on all day. It looked like she was focusing, but I still haven't been able to get her to follow a "command". (Then again that's not all that unusual even when she's well) . They removed the IV line in her neck,(right side) where they found the clot yesterday. They put a new line in on the left side of her neck. She has been getting a shot of Heprin (a blood thinner) every day, but today they started it in an IV drip. Hopefully it will help break up the blood clots. The treatment for the lung infection was completed this evening. The lungs are clear now. YEAH!

My dear friends from Lowe's in Vernal sent their love, support and care packages out with LeeAnn today. It was overwhelmingly sweet. I work with some really great people. Thanks! Yesterday I met some great Salt Lake City Lowe's employees. Their kindness and generosity blew me away. They don't even know me yet. I always believed in the goodness of people but this situation with Tami has really brought out the best in everybody I've dealt with.

Then later this evening Tami's bosses at Massage Envy stopped by to see how she's doing and let me know how much they love and appreciate her. I was glad to share my hope that soon she might be on her way out of ICU and up to the rehab. floor. It's hard to be patient and let her go at her own pace. Anyway.... If she can hang in there, so can I.

Kudos to Teresa from Grandma Ann

I want to let you all know that when an entry reads. . "Teresa says," or "Mommy says" that is really Teresa typing the update. Early on she told us in no uncertain terms that she doesn't like to journal. The first couple of times someone else was blogging her words, but she has really stepped up to the plate to keep us informed. Devron shared her password with her and she was off and running. . .and she IS the best informed and understands all that is going on better than anybody. (It will still say Devron's name at the bottom. . .but don't be misled.)

As most of you know, Teresa and I 'go way back' - we are in a long term relationship (forever?). I have often expressed my admiration and love for her and this experience has taken that to a whole new level.

I am headed North within the next hour. . .I am encouraged by Teresa's reports and look forward to even more improvement. Thanks again to all for your prayers, donations, moral support, caregiving to the little girls, love and faith. I wish I could personally give each one a hug. . . .please. . .consider yourself HUGGED by Grandma Ann.

Mon. Sept. 15th

Teresa says... Tami managed to breathe on her own all last night and all of today. She still needs to be able to follow commands like "squeeze my hand", "make a fist", "cough", "open your eyes", etc. in order to have the ventilator removed. But she's on the right track. The blood clots are still in her upper arms and one more was found today in her neck. They are monitoring them and giving her a blood thinner. Tomorrow the occupational therapist will be working with her on some brain stem stuff. It will involve textures, smells, music, and my voice. Should be interesting.

Sunday night update Sept.14th

From Teresa... Well more good news, the "bolt" that measured the inter cranial pressure was removed this afternoon. I keep looking to the monitor for that number and it's not there! It's strange after 12 days of constant awareness of it. She is doing most of her breathing on her own now. The machine is dialed way down and just providing support. Her core temperature is just a bit high, but they aren't stressing over it too much. (just trying to find ways to help cool her down without turning the "cool gard" back on). We are asking her to squeeze our hands, and she moves her arm, but can't squeeze our hand yet. Hopefully soon. With all this good news, I'm worn out so goodnight.

Sun. Sept.14th

From the "mommies' mouth"...It has been 2 weeks since the stroke hit... "my how time flies"...NOT! It's been an interesting journey. The CT scan yesterday showed no new damage. It looked almost identical to Thursday's . But that's OK. The doctor said it was a "massive" stroke, and she will have a long hard road ahead. They, and we , hope her youth will work to her benefit in her ability to recover. Today the ventilator is being dialed down a little at a time to see if Tami can pick up the slack and help breathe on her own. The goal being to remove it completely. She is lifting her eyelids now and then. I don't know if she is able to focus or see us yet, but she is trying. One of the most "encouraging" things for me today was the occupational therapist in her room this morning. She was beginning to work with Tami with some "range of motion" stuff. To my mind that is a step toward "rehabilitation "and a step away from "critical"! YEAH! I know there will still be some setbacks (that is the nature of this waiting game), but today I feel hopeful. Teresa

A Fundraiser for Tami

As you all know, Tami has been away from home and out of work for the past couple of weeks. There has been a fund set up for her and her family and I know there have been quite a few donations made already. Thank you to all who have donated.

On Saturday, September 27th a few of Tami’s friends and family members will be having an end of the season yard sale. ALL of the proceeds from the yard sale will go to Tami and her family!

We would like to make this sale as big as possible. The more we have to sell, the more we will make! If you or anyone you know have items, big or small, to donate to our yard sale please email me at tawnv8@hotmail.com to make drop off arrangements.

The sale will be held in SLC. Do NOT be discouraged from helping out if you are living out of the area. Contact me and we will see what we can work out.

We will post more info as it gets a little closer.

THANK YOU!!!
Tawnya Goodfellow

Sat. Sept. 13th

Good morning from Teresa....Tami is scheduled for another CT scan today. The doctors are trying new things to evaluate her abilities. The "cool gard" machine is connected to monitor her core temperature, but it's not turned on. We are hoping she can maintain her own temperature. Yesterday she was coughing on her own. That was a good thing. If she can show that she can "protect her airway" they can remove the breathing tube soon. I'm sure she would feel better without that in the way. (not to mention she could TALK to me) I'm really looking forward to that day! They have taken her off the drugs that paralyze, and are using the pain killing ones.
We are hoping to see more "wake up responses". The doctor allowed me to hold the cell phone up to Tami's ear and let Albert and her girls wish her Happy Birthday. Her eyelids fluttered. I think she heard them. I had it on speaker so I could help talk to Lilli for her mom. Hopefully soon Tami can speak for herself.

My dear friends from Lowe's in Vernal are paying for my hotel room when I CHOOSE to use one. (Since I am over 30 I feel I can make that decision for myself.) Lately with Tami so critical I did not want to be any further away than the parking lot. If I needed to check on her at 3 am. I could. As she gets a little better, I will be able to sleep a little further away from her. So thanks for all your love and concern but please allow me to be an adult. I am doing well, as long as Tami hangs in there, I'm just fine. Please keep her in your prayers.

As soon as the results of the new CT scan are in or new information occurs I'll update.

Grandma Ann Reports - FRI - 9/12

Teresa is much better at sharing the technical details. I am going back to St. George later this afternoon and I wanted to leave a note. As you all know it is an emotional roller coaster. I saw her raise her eyelids a bit yesterday in response to a prompt from the nurse. . .HOPE! Then they take out a tube yesterday and have to put it in again today. . . .concern. But, last night the doctor spent some time talking to Teresa and discussing the scan with her (she 'gets' that stuff. . .I don't). I asked her for a quote. . .among other things he said, "no increased damage and some improvement (from the scan 3 days ago)." We'll call that 'hope.'



I want to say again how grateful and humbled I am by the kindness, love and caring of so many family and friends (and friends of friends). I plan to try and modify the blog when I get home (and have the comfort of my own computer) so that we will have info more visible at the beginning about how to make monetary contributions. I will try and keep it simple. I have handed out Kristina's flyers since I have been here. Teresa posted one at the Curves near here.



Albert continues to be a valiant and strong 'Papa.' His family continues in their support. All of you are inspiring. I'm going to go and whisper my love and yours to Tami before I leave. Even though this is a difficult time and hearts are heavy. . .don't forget to watch for those 'gratitude' moments. There are still many instances of joy in most of our days if we pay attention. Love and thanks to all!

HAPPY 27TH BIRTHDAY TAMI

From your mommy... If you wanted me here for your birthday, you could have just asked! No need for dramatic measures. I love You , and can't wait to have you walking and talking and laughing again. You are my "angel with an attitude!" Keep fighting babe.

Thursday's update

Teresa says... Well some days are more optimstic than others. Yesterday evening she developed some blood clots in both of her upper arms. They are monitoring them and she is on a drug to help thin the blood. (heperin) The left lung is responding to the antibiotics for the infection. The plan for today is to remove the chest tube about 2:00 pm. It was removing fluid on the outside of her left lung.(it goes in near her rib cage.) Not to be confused with the ventilator down her throat. Anyway.... One less thing YEAH! WE were happy to be off the manitol yesterday but today it's helpful again, so they are alternating it with the 23% saline to keep the ICP #'s down.

Yesterday was draining for me because first I cheated myself on sleep. I figured I'd just take a nap later in the day but it didn't happen. Ann and I made some progress with an apt. to get the ball rolling on Social Security Disability for Tami. The meeting took 2 hours. I f it weren't so important for Tami, I would have walked out. Thank God Ann is good at that stuff and could help me deal with it. Anyway.. I realized I was just beat and needed a good hot shower and a full nights rest. So those of you who worry about me will be happy to know I checked into a motel for the night. I feel recharged today.

I think we will have up days and down days, we just need to be patient and let Tami and the staff do their things. Keep Praying.

This is my second attempt to put something into Tammy's Blog. my first attempt was a good one but when I went to press submit something happened and all was lost. Gotta love technology! (Its actually the user that you have to wonder about).
I was having some thoughts about our Little Angel Tammy. I know that there have been many of us that would gladly switch places with her. To try to suffer the pain or shoulder the burden. We might wonder why her and why now. But It is the Angel among us that has that capability to over come. Angels while beautiful and seemingly delicate and demure are are truly very strong and powerful and possess great will and faith. If anyone can Tammy can!
Albert, Thank you for being so thoughtful and sweet to Tammy and for being such a tremendous father to your beautiful daughters. I have heard so many good things from both family and from co-workers about how you are dealing with the challenges of Tammy being ill. I am very proud of you and greatful to have you as part of our family! Tracy and I and the boys will have all of you in our hearts and in our prayers.
1-4-3
Rick

Early morning edition Sept 10th

From the Mommie again... I came in @ 5;45am to see Tami before the 6:30 to 8:30am nurse "changing of the guards". She's still looking better. Nick had her all fresh and clean for the day. They "brush" her teeth with a sponge like thing attached to a suction tube. There is some kind of medicine on the sponge to prevent pneumonia from the germs in the mouth and teeth area. The doctors and nurses have pretty much weened her off of the mannitol (I'm not sure if it's spelled that way but that's what it sounds like to me). They are only using the 23% saline solution to help lower her ICP (inter cranial pressure). The nice thing about that is it has less side effects. They are only giving it to her as needed. Tami will turn 27 on Friday Sept. 12th. I figure when she "wakes up" and knows who we are we'll have a Birthday party of sorts, In the meantime we'll just keep on "keeping on". Now I'm going to go take a nap

midnight edition Sept 9th

Teresa says... I just spent the last hour in Tami's room. She's looking a little better all the time. Her ICP #s are maintaining. Yeah! Her arms and hands are still so full of fluid that they look like a Halloween wax arm, but her wrist has a little bit of definition that wasn't there the last few days. Her nurses are phenomenal! They are so patient with us, answering our many questions and explaining everything to us. Bless them ALL! They work 12 hour shifts. My nurse Ann called in today and asked for Tami on tomorrow's shift. She's been doing this kind of work since 1994. Dear Janet (today's day nurse) has been at this for 27 years! ( As long as Tami's been alive!) These special"Angels" are truly doing Gods work. Nick (tonight's nurse) explained that the machine that keeps Tami's internal temperature down is a brand new device. It's called a "CoolGard". Before this was available they would have to spray down the patient, have fans blowing across them and massage the cold into their body. I guess it was uncomfortable and a lot of work! Anyway... neat stuff... Tami's lungs seem to be working a little easier, at least the top parts. The bottom section of the left one is still somewhat congested but overall the respiratory therapists are pleased with Tami's progress, and if they are pleased so am I! That's it for now, again thanks for the prayers and everything else.

Grandma Ann Reports. . 6 PM - Tues 9-9

Not much to report but I know you are all concerned so I wanted to update as best I could. She went 7 hrs today between medication for the cranial pressure (1:30pm). Pressure went up again about 5pm - more meds. One positive thing: the nurse was able to remove one of the 'I.V. Thingys.' She called it that to amuse us. She no longer needs the blood pressure medication.
Teresa and I went to the SS office to start the process for some Social Security assistance. We brought paperwork back that the Doctor had to fill out. He did. We have a meeting again tomorrow at 11am. They had a cancellation or we would have had to wait until Sept. 26th.

Several people have written comments offering a place for Teresa to stay. Thank you for your generous offers. She has had offers since the first day from family and friends that are nearby. Any of you that know Teresa. . .know that she will do - what she will do. Gotta' love her! And we do! While I am here I will try to keep this updated. . .THANKS again for all the prayers, support and love for our precious Tami.

Tues-Sept 9 - Teresa Reports. . . .

Good news this morning. Tami's ICP #'s stayed good all night. They only had to give meds at 7am. It's now noon and she hasn't needed additional. She's hanging in there.

Yesterday they made boots for her feet with lambskin insoles to keep her ankles from going floppy. They also put her on an air mattress pad to prevent bed sores. They were giving her liquid nourishment (like Boost or Ensure). What goes IN is coming OUT and functioning properly. Also, her fluid output is greater than fluid input - which is a good thing because they are trying to flush out excess meds and liquid. Her face is looking less swollen.

We were also allowed to bring in a CD player and play some soothing music. We don't know if it helped Tami but it made the environment nicer.

One thing they are monitoring this morning is - the left lung seems to be functioning less faborably than the right lung. They took an X-ray. . .it wasn't as bad as they thought - they are still deciding whether to put a scope down and look around. They can also suction out congestion if they need to.

When I spoke to her doctor he seemed 'almost' hopeful. . .and that made me feel good.

My sister Becky came out Sunday afternoon and has been hanging out with me. If Tami wasn't so ill. . .it would have been a good slumber party. . . .I enjoyed the visit.

Grandma Ann is here for a few days and we are brainstorming on household mgmnt issues.

Keep praying. . .thanks for all the love and support.

For those of you who would like to help raise funds for Tami and her family, please email me and I will send you a file that you can print out, mail, forward, or post it as a bulletin. It is a Flier that I compiled from all the blogs on this website and put a few pictures of tami and her family on. I am hoping that we can all share this story with any of our extended friends and family members to help raise funds and get a network of prayers going for Tami.... May many more hearts and prayers go out for Tami, Albert, Lilly and Ella.God bless you all,Cousin Kristina Casados KristinaC@sunpacificglazing.com
September 8, 2008 10:08 AM

Monday Morning

Teresa just called...
Her numbers have been going up again. They have been trying to ween her slowly back off some of the medication, but the numbers just kept climbing. They finally administered her a bigger dose, but it started to affect her blood pressure, so they had to readjust some other medication. They have things pretty leveled out, but they could be better. It hasn't even been 24 hours since surgery, so hopefully as a little more time passes, all things will even out.
Even though they removed some of the brain, it was another surgery, so there is probably some swelling coming from that.
It is so amazing to feel the love and support from all of you. Keep it coming!!!

3:20 on Sunday afternoon

Tami is out of surgery. They did what they went in to do. They removed a baseball size piece of her right frontal lobe, that was dead and damaged, which helped relieve the pressure considerably. It went from 35 to 4. The doctor said that , that is a pretty silent part of your brain. He also said that for now things are where they need to be with her brain, and hopefully the pressure will stay down. We are waiting to be able to see her. As always keep praying, and we will let you know as we do.

Sunday Sept. 7th 2008

Mother Teresa says.. This morning Tami's numbers were up and down. It was that way throughout the night too. She was needing more frequent doses of the medications to keep her ICP number below 20. So the surgeon determined it was nessesary to opperate again. They plan to go in and remove the dead and damaged parts of her brain, thereby allowing more room for swelling and hopefully protecting the undamaged left side of her brain which controls speach, memories, movement, and other very important functions. They took her in about 12:30 pm today. We are waiting and praying....

albert said...
they put her brain to sleep to slow the activity her crainial pressure is 16 a normal person is at a 4 on a bad day so you can see the concern. The nurse said she's doing everything they, want so that is great. Well I will tell you more tomorrow. Keep praying. Thank you, Albert

Albert added this to the comment section and I thought it would get overlooked, so I moved it here so that everyone could read it.
albert said...
Today on this saturday 9-5-08 11:30am Tami is doing good her numbers look alright they are trying to balance her blood flow to he brain and keep her inter crainal pressure down between 25 and lower the lower the better. The swelling has gone down wich is fantastic compared to the last couple days. It is vary hard to see my Tami like this the last time i saw her she was talking to me and i brought her a tooth brush to see if i could brush her teeth for her and ofcourse she said let me do it she is a tough girl thats why I call her Taminator.So for right now a qiuet room and no physical contact is what she needs.Thats the hardest part all I want to do is hold her and kiss her like i did every day. What I would do for one of those at home moments where I would come home from work and she is cleanning the house or making lunch for me and the girls would be dancing and mommas shaking it in kitchen and i would reach for dollars out of my pocket and say dirty stuff that you guys dont need to know.. Her and i would dance and our Lilly would alway get right between us and Ella would want up in her mommies arms and we would just have the best times and biggest smiles then I would pinch her booty and tell Lilli to pinch mommas butt and Tami would chase Lilli and I down the hall and i would throw Lilly on the bed and Tami would tackel me and Ella would be right behind us yelling up up momma and we would Tami and I would just say to each other look at these girls can you belive they belong to us.My response is thank god My aunties Becky and Monica had a Big part in the time I met Tami and how I met her. Tami has helped me become the person I am today. Myth has it behind every good man is a great woman.. I will be back for an up date this evenning thank you for all of your prayers. Albert

Helping Hand

Many of you have asked how you can help. So we have set up an account at Mountain America Credit Union for Tami and her family.You can go into any branch and tell them you would like to donate money to the Tami Richardson Fund, and it will be found under J. A. Richardson.
If that isn’t convenient you can give any one of the family a check made out to them and write
‘Tami Fund’ in the memo. They will see it gets deposited appropriately. Sincere thanks for your love and support.
We know times are tough for all and unfortunately money doesn't grow on trees. But if any of you are interested we know it would not only be greatly appreciated, but it will also be put to good. As most of you know Tami was working as a massage therapist, and loving it, but she was also helping provide for her family, so things are tight.
We are so grateful for everything.

A WORD FROM BIG BROTHER TRAVIS

Grandma asked me to post an update so here goes. Teresa and I are still camped out here and checking in on Tami regularly for those who have been following the play by play her intercranial pressure as of now is hanging out around 14-15 for the most part and there seems to be a visible decrease in the swelling of her head and face. For the information of anyone whose not sure what the pressure means the doctors want it to stay below 20 so she's doing good there. Thats good news and I will take every tiny bit of improvement I can get. Its been a regular reunion around here with old friends and family coming by to show love and support to which I'm sure Tami would say thanks but you didn't have to. I hope my blogging style doesn't bother anyone but I've never been one to dance around the subject. I guess what it boils down to is that a hundred feet from me is a young woman of unimaginable strength who is hanging on with everything she's got and no more willing to give up now than she was some 25 years ago, and though she's unconcious I'm certain she knows her family and friends are here to help her win this fight. Thank to everyone for all the love and assistance they are giving to Tami and her family. 143 all Travis

Note from Grandma Ann

I'm so proud of my family. You are all wonderful examples of love and faith. I know those who are able to be at or near the hospital are giving strength to our precious Tami. Teresa has always been an inspiration to me and the apple (Tami) didn't fall far from the tree.

We all know. . .Tami is SPECIAL! She is the SOFTEST and the STRONGEST person I have ever known.

I have seen Albert and Lilli the last two evenings. Ella was already asleep when I got there.

Albert is amazing with his girls. He worked today and then took the girls for a bike ride to the park. Then they came home and he cut the lawn with them frolicking in the back yard. I know because I talked to him and could hear them laughing and playing. He has the laundry done and their clothes for tomorrow neatly stacked and labeled and additional notes so those who come to care for them will be well informed. I know every ounce of his being wants to be with Tami, but he is doing all this other stuff because he loves his family and he knows this is the best way to honor his 'angel.' I am so proud of him.

I want to also applaud Albert's family. From the first time I met them I have felt their love as a family and their commitment to one another. Tami loves them and has told me she is blessed to have added them all to her family. They are helping him with the children and in any way possible. I thank them for all their efforts and their love.

Thanks to all for your support, love, faith, and prayers. I believe in MIRACLES.

Wednesday Night

I just talked to Teresa and here is what I know. The monitor or probe that they have coming out of Tami's beautiful head monitors the pressure on her brain. They like the number to be below 20, and earlier today it was staying pretty high. But after some major tweaking of medications and a few other tricks they have up their sleeves they have gotten the numbers down a little. Not necessarily where they want them, but lower which is good. They tried to put a tube down her nose to help them get some medicine into her,(at least if I remember correctly that's the reason) and she was having none of that, which is good, because that means she is aware to an extent. We all know she is a survivor, and I am putting my faith in that.
It was hard to see her today, because they asked us not to touch her and to be very quiet in her room, any stimulation, good or bad was causing her brain stress. But I know that everytime someone enters that room , there may not be much said, but I know our love is big enough that she has just got to feel it. How lucky we are that we have so much love in this family.

Wednesday Morning

It's Wednesday morning and her vitals are ok, but the brain pressure is a little high, so they are keeping the room dark and quiet and giving her medication to bring the pressure down.
Her brother Travis says she looks like she's powering the city with all the tubes coming out of her head. Her brother Logan is here to bring her peace and calm with his meditation. And Mother Teresa is making sure that all the right questions get asked and totally keeping her shit together, unlike most of us. Thank God they are all here.

After Surgery

I just got home after a few hours at the hospital. I wanted Teresa to update this because she is so good about remembering all the details, but I will try my best.
Tami's surgery went well I guess. They were able to remove a portion of her skull on the right side so that they could relieve the pressure on her brain. They also put a fiber optic monitor in on the left side to monitor the pressure. Teresa said it makes her look like Cindy Lou Who. It sticks straight out of the top of her head. She doesn't look so hot, and I was not prepared. I guess I thought she would be in the hospital for a couple of days and then she would come home and she would go to rehab to work on her gimpy leg and her arm that wouldn't cooperate. Oh, how I wish that were the case. It is going to be a long road. If I understood the doctor correctly, she could be in the hospital up here in SLC for weeks and there will be months of recovery.
I know she and we could use all the prayers that are offered. Please remember her in yours.

To Keep You Updated.

We have created this blog keep everyone who knows and loves Tami updated. We will try very hard to let you know exactly what is going on and just how she is doing. We are also in the process of setting up an account, so that any of you who would like to donate to helping this sweet family with this incredibly tough time, can. We are trying to get this all set up, hopefully by tomorrow.
Tami is in surgery right now. They are relieving the pressure that is on her brain and we will know more soon. Love you all.